Overview

The Photojournalism programme at Western Kentucky University offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for the fast-paced world of visual media. This degree focuses on developing technical proficiency and ethical storytelling skills to ensure graduates excel in the global journalism landscape.

Students can choose between two distinct concentrations to tailor their education to their specific career goals. The Photojournalism and Documentary track consists of 45 credit hours, while the Photography track requires 36 credit hours. Both pathways emphasise practical experience through high-quality student publications and workshops.

The curriculum is built on a foundation of content-driven storytelling, reinforced by professional internships and overseas educational opportunities.

Why Photojournalism at Western Kentucky University?

The institution is home to one of the nation’s finest media programmes, consistently leading in the William Randolph Hearst Journalism Awards. These prestigious competitions are often regarded as the collegiate equivalent of the Pulitzer Prizes. The university has a long-standing reputation for producing highly successful graduates.

Facilities at the School of Media & Communication are state-of-the-art, providing students with the tools necessary for modern visual production. The programme is ACEJMC accredited, ensuring that the teaching standards meet rigorous professional benchmarks. Faculty members are award-winning professionals dedicated to student mentorship.

Beyond the classroom, the university supports growth through student organisations and specialised living-learning communities. These resources foster a collaborative environment where students can hone their craft. Partnerships and freelance opportunities further enhance the professional network available to undergraduates.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 29030 per year
National fee: USD 27000 per year
Local fee: USD 12072 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Photojournalism
Documentary Video
Design
Studio Lighting
Visual Business Practices
Journalism Writing
Still Photography

Careers with Photojournalism

Graduates are well-prepared for diverse roles within the media and communication industries. Those following the documentary track often find employment as visual journalists, staff photographers, or video producers for news organisations. The skills gained are highly transferable to various digital storytelling platforms.

The photography concentration opens doors to commercial sectors, including advertising and promotional photography. Graduates may also pursue careers in portraiture or freelance studio work. The programme’s strong emphasis on business practices ensures that students are equipped to manage their own professional photography ventures.

Programme Structure

Courses Include:

Understanding Media Content, Ethics and Technology
Media Content, Collaboration and Community
Fundamentals of Photography
Short Form Documentary
Photojournalism
Lighting Technologies

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-19 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

100

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Bowling Green, United States

Disciplines

Journalism View 517 other Bachelors in Journalism in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.5

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

100

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

A completed application (open WKU application for admission)
Minimum academic requirements: Freshmen: 2.5 GPA / Transfer:* 2.0 GPA
*Students with 24 or more earned hours of college credit
English proficiency requirements
$75 non-refundable application fee
Official Academic Records from schools attended with grades and any degrees/diplomas/certificates received. Should also include a literal English translation.
Financial Evidence of Support must be provided to obtain an I-20
Students transferring from within the US will need to fill out the Transfer-In Form

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

29030 USD / year

≈ 29030 USD / year
Out-of-State

27000 USD / year

≈ 27000 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

12072 USD / year

≈ 12072 USD / year

Living costs

Bowling Green

United States

900 - 1400 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Photojournalism.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Bowling Green

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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